Wednesday, March 4, 2015

Art is as about subjective as it gets. What one person loves another might loathe. Except, of course, if that one person is Charles Saatchi — then regardless of whether you love it or loathe it, it’s going to be of cultural significance. After all, Saatchi is the man credited with propelling young British artists Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin into the art stratosphere.

Karachi born artist Huma Bhabha works primarily with found materials (how very “G”), reworking everyday objects into new and fascinating forms. Now, I’m no Saachi — but for what it’s worth, here are my observations:

Made from clay, wire, plastic and paint, “Untitled” resembles road kill which has cleverly managed to retire in child’s pose. The protective plastic sheeting adds nice a waterproof finish.

“Museum Without Walls” was fashioned from clay, wire, wood and styrofoam and cheekily combines the tradition of a tribal mask with the modernity of our throw-away culture. It seems styrofoam has literally washed up on the shore and attached itself to this sculpture.

If you’ve ever wondered what mixed media looks like, look no further than “Waiting for a Friend”. This piece is a most curious mixture of a totem pole head and a pear-shaped bottom with some raw red seething entrails in the middle to liven things up.

Finally, “International Monument” is made with clay, styrofoam, chicken wire and bone. Wait, I think I can hand-le this one. Ha, ha. This larger than life high-five looks strong, yet fragile. Filled with hope and happiness, it could turn to desperation and despair in an instant.

Oooh, I think I’m getting good at this. No? What? I’m banned from all galleries for life?? That’s seems rather severe. In my defense, I echo my previous sentiments, when it comes to appreciation of art, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. But when it comes to writing about it, that should probably be left to the professionals.